Export support on offer at event

An event aimed at encouraging and supporting more Highland firms to consider exporting as an effective way to expand will take place in Inverness at the start of next month.

The Grow Your Business Overseas session is being run by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), in partnership with Scottish Development International (SDI), with support from the European Regional Development Fund.

In addition to getting access to industry experts, delegates will hear from Henry Blake, whose firm WoodBlocX has thrived after looking beyond the traditional domestic market.

WoodBlocX designs and builds wooden

“The potential is huge. It opens doors at home and abroad”

blocks that can be built into raised flower beds. It has been able to increase revenue after expanding its operations overseas.

Mr Blake said: “Exporting has totally changed our operation – the potential is huge. It raises your profile and opens doors at home and abroad.”

A two-hour Preparing to Export taster session will be delivered by Giraffe Consulting, giving practical information on how to start exporting. Oneto-one advice meetings with SDI’s export adviser for the Highlands and islands, Stewart Miller, will also be available.

HIE international trade developer Laura Robertson said: “For some businesses looking to start their international trade journey it can be hard to know where to start. That’s what this workshop is all about.”

The event is at HIE’s An Lochran headquarters, on Inverness Campus, on Tuesday March 3.